The global burden of hygiene-related diseases in relation to the home and community

The report draws together data on the global incidence and prevalence of hygiene-related infectious diseases focusing on the spread of these diseases in home (domestic) and community settings. The report illustrates what the benefits could be, in terms of improving global health and well-being, if we could motivate people to take more responsibility for preventing the transmission of ID in their own domestic homes through better hygiene/infection control practices. It also evaluates the various factors which are shaping current trends in hygiene-related infectious diseases. The report covers both developed and developing countries and compiles data from epidemiological and microbiological studies. The report was drafted by Professor Bloomfield. It was then submitted to the other members of the IFH Scientific Advisory Board to discuss and develop the review, and agree on final content.